He’s curious, playful, and full of determination—a kid who loves his iPad, his school nurse, and spending time with his family. His wish to get out and explore seems simple enough. 

But for much of his life, the world beyond his front door has been hard to reach. Born with a critical heart condition, Andrew has spent countless days in hospitals and countless nights at home, longing for the freedom to go wherever his imagination takes him.

Like his dad, Andrew Sr., he’s a fighter. They share more than just a name—they share a fierce determination to face whatever life hands them and keep moving forward. For Andrew, that means navigating a world shaped by DiGeorge Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder, and a heart condition that has required three major surgeries. For his dad, it means raising Andrew as a single parent while living with his own physical challenges as a bilateral amputee.

“It’s a privilege to take care of him,” he shared with us. “We almost lost Andrew during his last surgery, and it was a horrible experience for all of us.”

During his third heart surgery, Andrew lost his pulse and nearly died on the operating table. He spent six months fighting and recovering in the hospital—a grueling experience that tested both father and son.

Despite these challenges, Andrew’s dad never faltered. He is not only a single parent but also a full-time caregiver. His son needed him, so he was there. Simple.

For this family, life has rarely been that easy, but their determination has carried them forward. It runs deep in their bloodlines, including Andrew’s late aunt Paula, who adored him and always sought to brighten his day. Paula was always looking out for her nephew’s best interests, so when she watched Andrew Sr. and Jr. struggle with transportation, she decided to do something about it.

One day, she popped open an internet browser and hovered her cursor over the first name she saw: Chive Charities. Paula began an application for an ADA van that she knew could change Andrew and his dad’s lives forever.

Devastatingly, Paula was never able to complete it. She passed away during the Covid pandemic and her absence left a deep void in all who were lucky enough to know her. Andrew, who had already endured so much, was devastated. He stopped talking, moving, and engaging in the activities he once enjoyed. It was a heartbreaking time for all of them.

But, like the angel she was throughout Andrew’s life, Paula continued to shine her light on him. Years later, Andrew’s home health nurse, Sherry, picked up where Paula left off and finished the application. Paula’s legacy had come full circle.

Because of these two women who love and care for Andrew, the next phase of his journey is just beginning.

Before the holidays this year, Andrew and his dad will receive a wheelchair-accessible 2019 Toyota Sienna, specially modified with hand controls so his dad can drive it. The $60,410 grant funded by donors like you covered everything, providing a reliable, comfortable, and accessible vehicle for a family that desperately needed it. We can’t thank you enough for making it possible.

The impact of this van is monumental. Andrew’s dad no longer has to endure the physical strain of breaking down Andrew’s wheelchair to fit it into their car—a difficult task for anyone, but an especially grueling one for someone with significant physical challenges. Now, they can easily load the wheelchair, giving Andrew the freedom to attend school, medical appointments, and family outings with far less stress and effort.

For Andrew’s dad, this van represents more than just transportation—it’s a lifeline. It’s freedom, independence, and the ability to provide his son with the experiences and opportunities every child deserves.

In the past year, Andrew has begun to come back to himself. The grief and isolation that followed his aunt’s death had dimmed his spirit, but recently, his dad has seen glimpses of the bright, funny, and determined boy he’s always known. "He’ll do things when he wants to do them," his dad joked, smiling. “He’s stubborn, but he’s such a good kid.” That spark, so central to who Andrew is, is shining again.

As Andrew moves forward, he continues to display the resilience that has defined his young life. His medical team is carefully weighing the risks of another surgery, and his dad remains by his side, ready to do whatever it takes for his son. The road ahead is unknown, but one thing they can count on is going down it together.

This van wouldn’t have been possible without Paula and Sherry. And it definitely wouldn’t be possible without the kindness of Chive Charities donors. Because of your generosity, Andrew and his dad now have a tool that will make their lives infinitely easier. It’s a reminder of the incredible difference we can make when we come together to help those in need.

To Andrew and his dad, this van isn’t just a gift—it’s a new chapter filled with possibilities, freedom, and hope. Thank you for being part of this journey and helping make the world 10% happier, one extraordinary story at a time. DONATE HERE.